West Highland Way - 10 Days & 9 Nights
- Complete Scotland’s most iconic long-distance hiking trail
- The remote Scottish Highlands, shimmering lakes, and misty moors
- Unwind with a dram of whiskey and soak up the friendly atmosphere
- Hike from Loch Lomond to the wilderness of Rannoch Moor
- Sense of accomplishment reaching Fort William at the base of Ben Nevis
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Milngavie, walk to Drymen 12 miles / 19.5 kmIf you are not staying in Milngavie on the previous night, you will meet our luggage carriers at the train station between 8:30-9:00am, ready to collect your bags and whisk them off to your accommodation for the night.
After setting off from Milngavie today’s route runs through the ancient earldom of Lennox between the Campsie Fells and Blane Water. Follow a series of good paths through beautiful rural scenery to Drymen, a small and charming village. A recommended stop is the Glengoyne Distillery, where you can take a tour and enjoy a wee dram to send you on your way. Also en route is the Beech Tree Inn, complete with beer garden and delicious fare.
Ascent/Descent: +130m/-120m
Ashbank B&B is a family-run accommodation offering superior rooms in the heart of the village. Ashbank was once the home of the famous Olympian Eric Liddel whose story was depicted in the Oscar winning film Chariots of Fire.
Braeside Guest House is situated in the centre of the village, close to all local amenities. All rooms are En-suite and have WiFi, TV, Tea & Coffee facilities with fresh milk. The gardens are perfect to relax in after your walk, there is also a BBQ available to guests. Hosts Chris and Fiona have extensive local knowledge and are always on hand to offer any assistance you may require
Green Shadows is an exceptionally situated 4-star country house B&B that sits in the shadows of the ruins of Buchanan Castle just over a mile from the idyllic village of Drymen. All of their rooms feature stylishly designed en-suite or private adjoining facilities and all are equipped with flat screen colour televisions, and tea and coffee making facilities, hair dryers and ironing facilities. You'll also enjoy one of their hearty breakfasts in their very elegant dining area. The B&B also has free Wi-Fi available if you want to access the internet.
As you leave Drymen you start to climb towards Conic Hill, which sits astride the Great Divide, separating the highlands and lowlands of Scotland. The climb is fairly steep but on reaching the summit you can enjoy fantastic views over Loch Lomond, Britain’s largest body of freshwater covering 27 square miles. You descend a steep path towards Balmaha, which is a small village nestling in a protected bay on the shores of bonnie Loch Lomond.
Ascent/Descent: +306/-356m
Standing in the shade of a magnificent 500-year-old oak tree, this unique country Inn which was constructed from locally quarried slate. Each room has its own individual character and all of the deluxe rooms in the cottages have views towards the loch. All rooms are en-suite and are well equipped to make your stay with them comfortable and enjoyable.
This is a beautiful but deceptively tough section. The path alternates between the loch shore and natural forest and headlands on the banks of Loch Lomond. There are numerous short steep climbs, and if you have walked all the way from Drymen you will be very pleased to see Rowardennan. That said, the scenery, forest, and birdlife are outstanding.
During peak months, all accommodation at Rowardennan fills up well in advance. If there is no availability on the date requested, you will automatically be booked into alternative accommodation in Balmaha or Drymen. To get to/from the West Highland Way, a short return transfer will be arranged and a small supplement charge to cover the transfers will be added to your booking.
Ascent/Descent: +153m/-133m
Situated on the rugged Eastern Shore of Loch Lomond in the magnificent Queen Elizabeth Forest, the Rowardennan Hotel has breath-taking views of Ben Lomond, Loch Lomond Loch Lomond and the mountains to the North. The hotel is a typical walker’s style property and many rooms have stunning views across the Loch.
Situated on the rugged Eastern Shore of Loch Lomond in the magnificent Queen Elizabeth Forest, the Rowardennan Hotel has breath-taking views of Ben Lomond, Loch Lomond Loch Lomond and the mountains to the North. The lodges are situated in the gardens adjoining the Hotel and within each you have all that you require to enjoy a comfortable stay. In the evening you can enjoy a wee dram in the Clansman bar, watching the glorious views from the marvellous beer garden, and enjoy quality hot food, also served in the bar, and made using local ingredients, and designed to give you a filling meal after a long days walk. Wifi available in hotel.
Rowardennan Lodge Youth Hostel sits in an idyllic location on the banks of Loch Lomond with its own jetty and panoramic views across the loch. The lodge offers a wide range of private rooms and comfortable shared dorms all with separate washroom facilities. Relax with a local craft beer or glass of wine in the hostel’s large and cosy lounge, while soaking up the spectacular view across the loch. Other facilities include a laundry and drying room. Basic provisions, confectionery and soft drinks are available to purchase at reception and WiFi is free for all guests.
Leaving Rowardennan, the West Highland Way follows forestry roads and gently climbs high up above Loch Lomond, giving fantastic views over the water and towards the peaks of the Arrochar Alps. As you close in on Inversnaid the path narrows and becomes more undulating, passing over a spectacular bridge and waterfall as you arrive at Inversnaid Hotel.
Departing Inversnaid you pass through the RSPB Inversnaid Nature Reserve and then close by to Rob Roy’s Cave. The path from Inversnaid to the head of the loch is hard going with numerous ups and downs and a generally rough surface. After leaving the lochside and passing Doune Bothy the path improves but it may seem a very long two miles from Ardleish to Inverarnan where the lovely Beinglas Farm marks the end of your day. Leave the way and follow the signs for Inverarnan. The 300-year old Drovers Inn is world-famous and provides the ideal location for your end-of-day refreshment.
If you are staying across the loch at Ardlui Hotel, then look out for the sign pointing to the little ferry (Around 2 miles before the end of this section). Walk down to the loch shore and call the ferry by raising the ball (you'll be returned to this same spot the following day).
Please ensure you check your tailored accommodation sheet for details of your overnight stay.
Ascent/Descent: +216m/-229m
The hotel was built as a private hunting lodge for the Colquhoun family around 1851. It was first opened as a hotel in 1886 and two years later the east wing was added, while the west wing was added by 1905. The hotel today is painted white due to the three different types of stone used to build the main building & each of the two wings.
This hotel is one of the friendliest and most intimate hotels in Loch Lomond. With 10 en-suite rooms they offer a relaxed accommodation with great views across the northern shores.
Beinglas Farm is situated directly on the West Highland Way at the stage of Inverarnan and is within easy walking distance of the village centre. Beinglas Farm has been awarded a three star grading from the Scottish Tourist Board.
The Drovers Inn dates back to the 1800s. Packed full of history, it has been a welcomed, cosy stop for the weary hunters and travellers passing through the highlands for hundreds of years.
There are 15 rooms in the original Inn, these are filled with antique furniture, oil paintings and rich colours, but equipped with today’s modern comforts. When there is no availability in the original building, there are an additional 16 rooms in the lodge across the road, these are more modern chalet style rooms. Regardless of where you are staying, you are free to relax in the bar & lounge areas, and indulge in hearty Scottish cuisine and perhaps a dram of local whisky.
The trail climbs out of Inverarnan beside the River Falloch towards Crianlarich. Mighty Ben More and Stob Binnean provide a fantastic backdrop to your walk, and the views back down towards Loch Lomond are first class. After Crianlarich you enjoy a period of secluded woodland walking before making your way back to the valley floor and through farmland surrounded by towering highland scenery.
Ascent/Descent: +384m/-178m
Glengarry House is a friendly and comfortable Guest House, they have three guest rooms which all have radio alarms, TV’s, hairdryers, tea and coffee and WIFI and all the toiletries are environmentally friendly.
Tigh-Na-Fraoch is a friendly, quiet & welcoming B&B which is the first B&B in Tyndrum, only 20yds from the West Highland Way. You will be guaranteed a warm welcome on arrival with a cup of tea and some home baking. They have three perfectly appointed guest rooms & also a separate cottage with rooms which have all the amenities you will require for a great overnight stay.
Chris Sclater extends a warm welcome at his guest house in Tyndrum, set amidst spectacular mountain scenery. Dalkell offers simple, cosy and comfortable accommodation; there are 7 rooms in total, 4 of which are en-suite.
Get ready for a great day of walking! The scenery is stunning and now that you are getting into your stride you will love the fast-going on military roads. Follow the valley towards ever-wilder parts of the Highlands. Arrive in Bridge of Orchy, a small hamlet surrounded by mountains. The hotel sits on the banks of the River Orchy and gets its name from the arched stone bridge crossing the river. The hotel here serves delicious meals so prepare for a cosy evening of food and perhaps a wee dram by the fire.
Ascent/Descent: +105m/-148m
The Bridge of Orchy hotel welcomes guests with personalised service, imaginative Scottish cuisine and an intimate atmosphere. The hotel’s personalised service and ‘can do’ approach is seen in their bedrooms and throughout the hotel and a real home-from-home feel is their priority.
Inveroran believe that coming to visit the hotel should be a very special experience for everyone and they have done their best to retain the atmosphere of the 19th century inn throughout the modern hotel and offer great food, great hospitality and comfortable rooms.
Your hosts at Stance Cottage understand that you love the outdoors! It is situated just off the West Highland Way and is kitted out with a drying cabinet for wet outdoor clothes and boots, along with tea/coffee making facilities, and fluffy white towels. Historically drovers would stop in Bridge of Orchy and pay to ‘stance’ their cattle/sheep in the stance below the cottage. Over the last 150 years a shed or barn has continuously stood beside the cottage. These have been demolished and re-constructed several times since the cottage was built, and each have been used for many different functions, including the storage of hay and livestock. Stance Cottage is once again a welcome haven for people on a journey.
There is a steep climb as you leave Bridge of Orchy, but you are rewarded with amazing views over Loch Tulla and the Black Mount hills. A short descent brings you to the isolated Inveroran Hotel.
This is our favourite section of the West Highland Way. Leaving Inveroran skirt Loch Tulla and join the military road across the Rannoch Moor, a wonderful, lonely, and exposed place that was once covered by a giant icecap and is today covered in a bog. There is no shelter and in bad weather, it can be exposed, whilst in good weather, Rannoch Moor is simply inspiring. The original 17th-century hotel at Kingshouse has now been replaced with a refurbished hotel, which provides unrivaled views of Buachaille Etive Mor, perhaps Scotland’s most photographed mountain.
Kingshouse: If you are staying in Kingshouse, an additional supplement may be payable depending on the time of year and the day of the week. If this is relevant to your preferred departure date, your Destination & Adventure specialist will communicate this with you upon confirming your booking.
Ascent/Descent: +442m/-372m
Kingshouse Hotel sits in splendid isolation on the wild Rannoch Moor with arguably Scotland's best view of Buachaille Etive Mor.
The Kings House Hotel is centred around a 17th century Inn, believed to be one of Scotland's oldest licensed establishments. The original building was used after the Battle of Culloden in 1745, as a barracks for troops of George III, hence the name Kings House. The building has now been altered considerably over the past century and has now been redeveloped, refurbished and transformed to the highest standard. All rooms are comfortably decorated and have all the amenities you require for a comfortable night’s stay. There is also a drying room for those rainy days. The location of the Kingshouse Hotel could not be better and the view across to Buachaille Etive Mor has to be one of the most stunning vistas in all Scotland!
They are a family run, three-star, Scottish Tourist Board guest house situated right next to Glencoe Village at the foot of Glencoe itself, Strathassynt Guest House offers a home away from home in the Scottish Highlands.
You will be warmly welcomed to Tom Eachainn by Colin and Susan, who provide comfortable en-suite accommodation within sight of Loch Leven. All rooms have hairdryer, TV, wifi, tea and coffee facilities and toiletries.
From Kingshouse you follow an old military road to Altnafeadh, which gives great views of the famous ‘weeping glen’ and site of the Glencoe Massacre in 1692. Then you zigzag up the Devil’s Staircase to the highpoint of the West Highland Way at 548m, which gives stunning views towards Ben Nevis, given clear weather. From here wind your way down into the small town of Kinlochleven, marking the end of a pleasant day on the trail.
Ascent/Descent: +339m/-581m
Alt-Na-Leven guest house is well situated in the centre of Kinlochleven.
The Highland Getaway has wonderful accommodation that is clean, comfortable and perfect for relaxing after an adventurous day on the West Highland Way. The Highland Getaway Restaurant is the perfect place to start your day with a hearty breakfast or to unwind in the evening with a tasty meal or nightcap after a day of exploring the highlands.
The guest house is located at the head of Loch Leven, just 3 minutes’ walk from Kinlochleven village centre. All the rooms are en-suite and with mountain views. The whole guesthouse including all rooms is strictly non-smoking. A wonderful accommodation and you are assured a very warm welcome.
The initial sharp climb out of Kinlochleven is worth it for the fantastic views it brings, and once over the top, you follow a wonderfully remote valley past deserted sheilings towards Fort William. Enter a beautiful area of cultivated forest and follow a narrow winding track into Glen Nevis. Towering ahead is Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, and you follow a wide forestry road down to the Visitor Centre. The final two miles are along the Glen Nevis road, bringing you to the official end of the West Highland Way at the main street of Fort William, where your adventure comes to a close.
Ascent/Descent: +504m/-509m
Dora welcomes you with open arms to her beautiful guest house - Myrtle Bank. Overlooking Loch Linnie and just a short stroll from the town centre Myrtle Bank is a wonderful place to relax at the end of the West Highland Way.
A warm welcome awaits you at Guisachan House, a family run private guest house. They are situated in an elevated position off the main road with views over Loch Linnhe and surrounding hills only 5 minutes walking distance from Fort William town centre. They have 17 bedrooms and a guest lounge and bar offering wine, beer, spirits and malt whiskey. Wireless Internet is available for the guests. There is some photography dotted around the guest house taken by Phil, one of the owners.
Located in a prime residential area overlooking Loch Linnhe, the guest house is only 5 minutes walk from the shops and restaurants in Fort William town centre. You are assured a warm welcome at this splendid property and all rooms are en-suite with central heating, flat screen televisions and tea/coffee making facilities. There is free WiFi.
After breakfast your trip on the West Highland Way has come to an end. From Fort William we recommend you take the West Highland Line rail journey (3 hr 45 mins) back to Glasgow on one of the country’s most scenic train rides.
This trip has a carbon score of 7kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our best trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 7kg is equivalent to 1 single running shoe (not even a pair!). Here at Macs, we pride ourselves on being a responsible travel company and continue to adopt, develop and innovate ways to positively impact the environment. Find out more information about how we've carbon counted our trips.
Other Information
Is it for me?This is Scotland’s most stunning hiking route, and it's the best way to experience its isolated Highland scenery. This 10-day itinerary is one of our most popular itineraries, ideal for both regular hikers and first-timers seeking a challenge while still having time to unwind and savor this immersive experience. For an even more laid-back trip, check out our 11-day itinerary.
Classic Routes | If you’re the active, outdoorsy type, who’s interested in taking on the great routes of the world or looking for a challenge, then our Classic Routes are for you. We’re talking the West Highland Way in Scotland, the world renown Tour Du Mont Blanc and Germany's Moselle Cycle Path, to name but a few!
Inn to Inn Walking | Walk from place-to-place changing accommodations each night. Generally staying in B&Bs, inns, and guesthouses.
Solo Travellers
The minimum age for this tour is: 12 Years
The West Highland Way can be enjoyed by hikers with various levels of experience. Depending on your levels of physical fitness and personal preference, the route difficulty can vary from “easy to moderate” to “moderate” and “moderate to strenuous”:
- Our best-selling trips are graded as “moderate” hiking experiences: the 8-day and 9-day itineraries.
- For a more laid-back experience, we offer “easy to moderate” trips: the 10-day and 11-day itineraries.
- Seasoned hikers can undertake our “moderate to strenuous” hiking trips: the 7-day, and 6-day itineraries.
Some hiking days will be more demanding than others. While the terrain is a combination of good hiking trails and some rugged footpaths that may be uneven underfoot, the route does not require any technical skills. There are sections of both ascents and descents, with the Devil’s Staircase being the highest point at 1805ft above sea level.
This route is suitable for most regular hikers and the higher your level of physical fitness the more you will enjoy the experience. We suggest hiking regularly and hitting a few hills before your trip, keeping in mind the daily distances and changes in elevation in your daily itinerary.
This trip includes overnight stays in a combination of small hotels, guest houses, and B&B’s. We have worked with many of our local partners for over 20 years. Our great relationships with them will ensure you receive the best attention from the moment you check in!
Accommodation is limited in remote locations along the trail with sometimes just one option. Keep in mind that the standard of accommodation varies throughout your trip, and be sure to book early. All properties offer a warm welcome to hikers, traditional Scottish hospitality, and delicious local food. While offering outstanding service, accommodations are not often equipped with air-conditioning and rooms may become warm during summer despite the temperate climate and cool nights.
With a variety of rooms available, we book en suite rooms as standard, meaning that the bathroom is connected to the bedroom. If en suite rooms are unavailable, we may book a room with shared facilities, but we will always inform you in advance.
Accommodation Location
We will always try to accommodate you at the locations detailed in your itinerary. Occasionally due to limited availability, you will be accommodated at an alternative location to confirm your booking on your preferred travel dates. For example, if you are staying in Inverarnan on your itinerary, you may need to spend 2 nights in either Tyndrum, Crianlarich, or Bridge of Orchy (depending on your chosen trip itinerary). In that case we will include transfers to and from these locations, and they will be included in the cost of your tour. There may be other locations where you will have to stay at an alternative location, rest assured that we will always ask you about this in advance.
The Kingshouse Hotel
During busy booking times a supplement may apply when staying at the Kingshouse Hotel. Unfortunately, this can’t be avoided due to the hotel’s increasing costs on certain dates of the year. If you do not want to stay at the Kingshouse, there will be no supplement. You can stay in Glencoe or Ballachulish as an alternative.
Solo Hikers
This holiday is available to solo hikers, although a supplement is payable as double-occupancy rooms are booked and costs are not shared. If you require single rooms within your party, we would be happy to accommodate your request, although a supplement is payable. It is not generally possible to secure more than three single rooms in a party.
Meals
Breakfast is included each morning while lunch and dinner are not included so you are free to choose from the available options. Your accommodation may be able to provide a packed lunch on request and this can be booked and paid for on arrival. Alternatively, the Macs Adventure App will point out any recommended lunch spots along the way. Dinner is available either at your accommodation or at nearby pubs and restaurants.
Extending your vacation
You may wish to take some extra nights along the route, either to rest or for those with plenty of energy to explore some of the other walking opportunities nearby. We recommend extra nights at Rowardennan (for climbing Ben Lomond, a Munro with commanding views over Loch Lomond), Crianlarich (a halfway stop with options for visiting the seaside town of Oban, complete with whisky distillery, via the local train service), or Fort William (for climbing Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain).
The route is well-waymarked throughout and easy to follow. Navigation is straightforward as you can use the Macs Adventure Smartphone App which has maps, GPS tracks, and daily route information. Simply download the GPS tracks for offline use and follow the route on your phone with the assurance that navigation will be simple, and you can’t get lost. You will find more information on downloading the app in your Macs Adventure Account.
- 9 Nights in hand-picked B&B’s, small hotels & guesthouses
- 9 Breakfasts
- Baggage transfer
- Information pack and access to maps & GPX tracks in our Macs Adventure smartphone navigation app
- We include an overnight in Fort William at the end of your trip as standard
- 24/7 Emergency telephone support from our UK office
- Travel to Milngavie / from Fort William
- Taxi transfers or public transport should you need to skip a stage
- Lunches, dinners, snacks & drinks
- Personal equipment
- Travel insurance (required)
- Additional nights along the route
- Pre-tour accommodation in Glasgow / Milngavie
This trip is available from the end of March to mid-October. We suggest booking as soon as your plans are finalized as the West Highland Way is extremely popular and will sell out quickly (especially over April/May and July/August). We will always try our best to book your preferred dates, and having some flexibility in your travel dates improves our chances of confirming your booking.
Busy times in Kinlochleven are at the end of April and the beginning of May. This is because the "Pre-65 Scottish Motorcycle Trials" are held here during that time. There is also a busy time in Fort William at the end of April for a week because of the "Scottish 6 Days Trial Event". We have blocked start dates accordingly due to these events as availability is extra tight on these particular dates.
A supplement may apply when staying at the Kingshouse Hotel. Unfortunately, this can’t be avoided due to the hotel’s increasing costs on certain dates of the year. If you do not want to stay at the Kingshouse, there will be no supplement and you can stay in Glencoe or Ballachulish as an alternative.
Scotland's climate is notoriously changeable! From May to September, Scotland experiences temperate weather with the least amount of rainfall in May making it the most popular time to hike the West Highland Way. The months of June, July, and August mark the 'vacation season' (or holiday season) and accommodations are very busy during these months making it essential to book early. July and August are usually warmest with average temperatures around 57°F, and highs of up to 77°F. Traveling at the start of the season (March/April) or toward the end (October) will offer a much quieter experience. Keep in mind that some snow may remain or even fall on the higher parts of the route in the months of March and the start of April.
The weather can be changeable and unpredictable any month, often resulting in experiencing “all four seasons in a single day”. All hikers are advised to monitor the forecast and always be prepared with waterproofs, extra layers, sun-cream, and hats - your hike will be much more enjoyable if you're ready for all types of weather!
The West Highland Way begins in Milngavie, a distant suburb of Glasgow approx. 8 miles from the city center. There are excellent national and international transport connections by air, rail, and bus. Scotland has a couple of international airports: Glasgow, Glasgow Prestwick, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Inverness. London serves as the main UK gateway for long-haul flights and is often the more affordable option when flying from North America.
By Air
Glasgow and Edinburgh Airport are the most convenient airports to fly into.
Glasgow Airport: Situated 8 miles west of the city, the airport is served by numerous domestic and international airlines. Regular Citylink public buses run between the airport and the city center (duration: 15 min). Taxis are also available from the airport to your accommodation in Glasgow, to Glasgow Central Train Station, and to the city center.
Edinburgh Airport: Situated 45 miles east of Glasgow, the airport is served by numerous domestic and international airlines. Regular Citylink public buses run between the airport and Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station in the city center (duration: 1hr). You could also take the tram towards Edinburgh city center (duration: 30 min) and then connect with the train from Edinburgh Haymarket Train Station to Glasgow Queen Street Train Station (duration: 1hr).
By Rail
Traveling to Scotland by train from other parts of the UK is straightforward. Considering the check-in time and flight duration from London or other UK destinations, taking the train to Glasgow might be a more comfortable and convenient option. Booking in advance secures the best fares. For information on all routes visit Scotrail or National Rail.
By Bus
Public buses are the most affordable way to reach Scotland from other places in the UK. Services from England or Wales are operated by National Express or by Scottish Citylink from Scotland.
Getting to Milngavie
The best and simplest way to get to Milngavie from Glasgow is by train. Regular Scotrail services run between Glasgow Central and Queen Street Stations (duration: 25 min). Milngavie railway station is close to the start of the West Highland Way, and this is also where you will leave your luggage with our local handlers.
Alternatively, you can flag down a taxi on the street, call a taxi from your hotel, or use Uber (duration: 15 min).
By Rail
If you are returning to Glasgow, we recommend taking the train on the West Highland Line, renowned as one of the world's most scenic rail journeys (duration: 4hrs). It's an experience in itself! Reserving your seat in advance is recommended to secure the best fare.
If you're interested in exploring Scotland for a bit longer, you can for example connect to Inverness or Mallaig (then onto the Isle of Skye by ferry) by rail, using Scotrail. Speak to one of our experts for assistance or you need help planning another adventure.
By Bus
From Fort William you have the option to take Citylink buses directly to Glasgow (duration: 3hrs, 15min), Edinburgh city center (duration: 5hrs, 20 min), or Edinburgh Airport (duration: 5 hrs). You can also continue your journey to the Isle of Skye using the Citylink bus service.
Your bags will be collected from your accommodation each day and moved onto your overnight accommodation. We ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to 20kg/44lbs per person. Please ensure that you do not bring more than one bag of 20kg as if this occurs, the luggage transfer company will ask you to pay an additional fee. Our luggage transfer company can store the extra bag for you whilst you are on the tour and will deliver it to your final accommodation for an additional cost. Extra luggage and bag storage costs can be made locally.
At Macs Adventure, we work in partnership with many luggage transfer providers who set a limit on how many bags/suitcases they will transfer per person, and also the weight of the bag/suitcase. Your booking includes transfer of 1 bag per person. It is very important that you read the luggage information specific to your tour before departure. If you do not adhere to these limits, there is a great possibility that you will be charged locally both for extra bags or if they are too heavy. This limitation can be a challenge, especially as airlines generally have limits that are higher. However, our luggage providers have reasons for these limits (usually due to the Health and Safety of their employees), which we must respect.
The distances and ascent/descents are approximations of the recommended routes. Please be prepared by packing all necessary items, for example, proper rain gear (jacket and pants), sun hat, sunscreen. Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, warm and waterproof clothes for the cooler months and lightweight clothing for summer, and a day pack.
Online Documents
At Macs Adventure we care about the environment! We’re taking action to minimize the impact we have by converting the majority of our tour documentation for online delivery.
On this tour, all your detailed tour information will be digitally delivered. You will have access to this documentation via “My Account” on our website.
Having suitable footwear (hiking shoes/boots), comfortable and functional clothing, a waterproof jacket and trousers, a daypack, and hats/gloves is essential. You'll be outdoors for the majority of your time, so it's crucial to be prepared for changing weather conditions, rain or shine. Carrying waterproofs and sunscreen is advisable! Your Trip Information Pack contains a list of the necessary equipment along with some helpful suggestions. While you don't need specialized or technical gear, bringing hiking poles could prove beneficial.
It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity and emergency evacuation and hospital care.
At 98 miles the West Highland Way is a fair distance and the higher your level of physical fitness the more you will enjoy the experience. You should be comfortable hiking on good tracks and paths over undulating terrain for at least 6 to 7 hours. We suggest hiking regularly and hitting a few hills before your trip, keeping in mind the mileage and elevation in your daily itinerary.
If you don't overnight in Glasgow or Milngavie before beginning the West Highland Way meet our baggage transfer partners at Milngavie Rail Station at 0830-0900. They will check you in and take your bags, which will magically appear in your next overnight accommodation. Each morning, just leave your bags in the reception area and we will have them transferred to the next location. Please limit the weight of your luggage to 20 kg per bag (one piece per person).
We suggest booking as soon as your plans are finalized as the West Highland Way is extremely popular and will sell out quickly (especially over April/May and July/August). We will always try our best to book your preferred dates, and having some flexibility in your travel dates improves our chances of confirming your booking.
Having suitable footwear (hiking shoes/boots), comfortable and functional clothing, a waterproof jacket and trousers, a daypack, and hats/gloves is essential. You'll be outdoors for the majority of your time, so it's crucial to be prepared for changing weather conditions, rain or shine. Carrying waterproofs and sunscreen is advisable! Your Trip Information Pack contains a list of the necessary equipment along with some helpful suggestions. While you don't need specialized or technical gear, bringing hiking poles could prove beneficial.
From May to September, Scotland experiences temperate weather with the least amount of rainfall in May making it the most popular time to hike the West Highland Way. The months of June, July, and August mark the 'vacation season' (or: holiday season) and accommodations are very busy during these months making it essential to book early. Traveling at the start of the season (March/April) or toward the end (October) will offer a much quieter experience. The weather can be changeable and unpredictable any month, often resulting in experiencing “all four seasons in a single day”. All hikers are advised to monitor the forecast and always be prepared with waterproofs, extra layers, sun-cream, and hats - your hike will be much more enjoyable if you're
ready for all types of weather!
Midges are tiny biting insects (much like North American gnats) that are prevalent in the summer months. Midges gather in clouds and are a nuisance, but not harmful. They are particularly bad on still, overcast days but do not bother you if you are moving, the wind is blowing, the sun is shining, it’s raining, or you are inside! There are many repellents available including Smidge, who operate an annual “midge forecast” website that may be a useful resource. As long as you carry repellent for the odd occasion you may need it, it shouldn’t have any impact on your experience.
While offering outstanding service, accommodations are not often equipped with air-conditioning and rooms may become warm during summer despite the temperate climate and cool nights.
Self-guided travel with Macs Adventure is for independent, active people who don’t want to be part of the crowd or restricted by set dates and schedules. Go at your own pace, with the people you choose, without the worry of planning routes or arranging trip logistics. We take care of all of that for you, leaving you free to make your own discoveries, accomplish something amazing and simply enjoy the journey. It’s active travel, led by you.
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West Highland Way, Adventure Your Way
Countless happy hikers have completed The West Highland Way with Macs since we first operated it back in 2003. It remains a firm favorite with us at Macs and is still one of our most popular trails.
For a taste of the experience we have put together this short feature about a father and daughter on their West Highland Way adventure.
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A View into The West Highland Way
In this gorgeous video, Ewan - with the backdrop of the world-famous Loch Lomond and sounds of the bagpipes - discusses some of the finer points of hiking The West Highland Way.
He explains the accommodation, baggage transfers and how hassle free Macs Adventure make your vacation along The West Highland Way.
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West Highland Way Video Diary
Dan from the Macs team hiked the full West Highland Way.
In Dan's lovely video, he includes stopping points you shouldn’t miss (the distillery being the first!), what’s in his backpack, the red deer he saw and much more.
Sit back and enjoy this video which gives you a great flavor of what’s in store for you on the West Highland Way.
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HikingWhen is the best time to hike the West Highland Way?Read More3 Min Read18 April 2019
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West Highland WayFrequently asked questions on the West Highland WayRead More6 Min Read28 October 2021
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West Highland Way10 Top Tips for the West Highland WayRead More2 Min Read30 January 2018
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West Highland WayBest West Highland Way ItinerariesRead More3 Min Read01 March 2023
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How to get rid of midges in Scotland: Best midge repellent and protectionRead More3 Min Read24 June 2014
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West Highland WayWhat to Pack for the West Highland Way?Read More4 Min Read13 January 2011
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HikingWest Highland Way: The Best Moments Of 2019Read More1 Min Read24 September 2019
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West Highland WayA Poetic Review of the West Highland WayRead More1 Min Read14 April 2021
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Meeting the people behind the scenery - Minna & Classic RoutesRead More2 Min Read01 February 2023
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West Highland WayThe Great Glen Way - An Alternative to the West Highland WayRead More3 Min Read23 August 2024
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West Highland WayWest Highland Way vs The Great Glen Way - Hiking Vacations in ScotlandRead More4 Min Read29 August 2024
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Save %9 Days 8 Nights
Great Glen Way In Comfort
Walk this iconic long-distance trail from Fort William to Inverness with a touch of luxury.Highlights- Stay in upgraded hotels and boutique B&B's
- Walk the beautiful shores of renowned Loch Ness
- Follow the Caledonian Canal from west to east
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Save %7 Days 6 Nights
Best of the West Highland Way
Experience the highlights of Scotland's most famous long-distance trail on our "best of" itinerary.Highlights- Includes a visit to Glengoyne's whisky distillery
- Loch Lomond, the Highlands and Ben Nevis
- Stay at the best accommodations on the route
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Save %11 Days 10 Nights
West Highland Way - 11 Days & 10 Nights
Our most easy-going itinerary with the shortest walking days, great for less experienced walkers.Highlights- Complete Scotland's most iconic trail in 10 days
- Explore Loch Lomond, and Rannoch Moor en route
- Revel in the camaraderie along the trail